A black-and-white headshot of a woman with blonde, wavy hair. She has a serious expression, looking directly at the camera. She is wearing hoop earrings and a dark jacket. The photo has a high contrast with a sharp outline around her hair and upper body.

Empowering Travel: Navigating accessibility and advocacy
for individuals with Dwarfism
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk

Listen to this Article I love to travel. Travelling as a person born with dwarfism presents unique challenges but also opportunities for making connections. In this article, I share some of my most memorable travel experiences, from navigating inaccessible rental trucks to meeting Andre Agassi and Vice President Kamala Harris. These stories highlight the importance

Empowering Travel: Navigating accessibility and advocacy
for individuals with Dwarfism
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk
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A woman in a wheelchair is sitting on grass with vibrant, leafy plants in the background. She is wearing a patterned dress with a floral and foliage design and sunglasses. Next to her is a black dog with its tongue out, looking content. The woman has short dark hair and is smiling gently while resting her hand on the wheelchair's armrest.

Maria McClellan takes control of her travel destiny
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk

Listen to this Article I have had the pleasure of working with Maria McClellan as a fellow board member of Little People of America for over a year. She holds the position of  Inclusion Director. Maria was born with Morqio Syndrome, a rare form of dwarfism. According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, this occurs

Maria McClellan takes control of her travel destiny
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk
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Jim Teneycke, “find a good travel ally”
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk

Listen to this Article I have had the pleasure of knowing Jim and his family for nearly 15 years since our kids first became friends. I have always known him to be someone who is kind, knowledgeable and passionate about advocacy. Jim Teneycke was born with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SEDc), a form of dwarfism. He

Jim Teneycke, “find a good travel ally”
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk
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Jesse Nichols: “pack your patience”
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk

Listen to this Article I had the pleasure of interviewing my long-time friend Jesse Nichols in early May for this issue. Jesse, a seasoned traveller was born with a form of dwarfism called diastrophic dysplasia. Known for often saying “pack your patience,” by sharing his travel experience Jesse raises awareness and provides learning opportunities for

Jesse Nichols: “pack your patience”
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk
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Travel tips for a Little Person
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk

Listen to this Article Travelling holds a special allure for many, offering the promise of exploration, adventure and unforgettable experiences. Yet, for individuals born with dwarfism, embarking on a journey can unveil a distinct set of challenges, barriers and opportunities which shape the way we experience the world.  I have come up with a few

Travel tips for a Little Person
By Samantha Rayburn–Trubyk
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A smiling woman with blonde hair, wearing a leopard print blouse, is pictured against a solid blue background. She is wearing a light-colored pendant necklace and small earrings. Her hair is styled with bangs sweeping to the side, and she has a cheerful and friendly expression.

Guest Editor’s Note

Listen to this Article As the guest editor for the July edition of Accessible Journey’s magazine, I am honoured to delve into the crucial topic of accessibility within the travel industry, particularly focusing on the experiences of individuals with dwarfism. My son and I were born with achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism. Prior

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A Family Trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania
By Olivia Novak

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, with its rolling hills, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, offers a peaceful yet exciting escape for families of all abilities. Beyond the breathtaking farmland vistas, the county boasts a variety of accessible attractions that cater to a range of interests. Lancaster County is proud to be an AbleVu Accessible Destination and

A Family Trip to Lancaster, Pennsylvania
By Olivia Novak
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